01/04/24 - Audi Reveals Electric Q8 e-tron Dakar Edition SUV | Exploring the Chinese EV Giant Surpassing Tesla | QuantumScape's solid-state batteries offer 500k km, no range loss

GM. Rev up your day with the latest automotive news and insights delivered to your inbox in our exclusive newsletter! What we cover in today’s edition:

• 🚗 Car reveal/review: 

  • Audi Unveils Q8 e-tron Dakar Edition: Electric SUV with Off-Road Prowess

  • 2025 Ram 1500 Tungsten Is Officially A $90,000 Truck

  • Ford updates 2024 F-150 Lightning prices, the best-selling EV truck

• 🏭 Industry trend: Here’s what you need to know about the Chinese EV giant that just overtook Tesla | VinFast Announces Signing of Initial Independent Dealers in the US

• 🤖 Auto Tech: QuantumScape's solid-state batteries offer 500k km, no range loss

• ⚡ EV: What is the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate and what does it mean for you?

Audi Unveils Q8 e-tron Dakar Edition: Electric SUV with Off-Road Prowess (6 mins read)

The Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar, inspired by the desert rally, starts at around 120,000 euros in Germany. Available for order in Q1 2024, it's based on the Q8 advanced 55 e-tron quattro, featuring a 106 kWh net battery, 300 kW output, and 487 km WLTP range. The SUV has off-road enhancements, unique decal options, and luxury features. Limited to 99 units, it offers Matrix LED lights, S line interior, head-up display, and MMI theme worlds. Read more.

2025 Ram 1500 Tungsten Is Officially A $90,000 Truck (3 mins read)

Ram's 2025 1500 range starts at $42,270, topping at $89,150 for the Tungsten trim. Tradesman uses a 3.6L V6, but a 3.0L twin-turbo inline-six is now available, adding $2,695. High-output Hurricanes power Laramie, Rebel, Limited, and Longhorn models. Tungsten, at $90,000, offers luxury and a 540-hp engine. Prices for the Ramcharger, Ram 1500 REV, and RHO are pending. Expect electric trucks to range from $50,000 to $100,000. Tungsten is pricier than the F-150 Limited and Silverado High Country. Read more.

Ford updates 2024 F-150 Lightning prices, the best-selling EV truck (3 mins read)

Ford's best-selling electric pickup, the F-150 Lightning, adjusts 2024 prices due to increasing demand. Base Pro starts at $54,995, XLT at $64,995, and Lariat at $79,495. Platinum models get price cuts, with the 2024 Platinum at $84,995 and the black version at $92,995. A new "Flash" trim, priced at $73,495, offers a 320-mile range, tech-loaded interior, heat pump, Tow Tech package, and Power Tailgate. All trims under $80,000 qualify for a $7,500 EV tax credit. Read more.

Here’s what you need to know about the Chinese EV giant that just overtook Tesla (7 mins read)

This article discusses how BYD, the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has surpassed Tesla as the top-selling EV brand globally. Examining BYD's rapid rise, the article explores key factors such as affordability, international market dominance, and advancements in battery technology, reshaping the landscape of the fiercely competitive electric vehicle industry. Read more.

VinFast Announces Signing of Initial Independent Dealers in the US (3 mins read)

VinFast, the global electric vehicle manufacturer, signed agreements with five U.S. dealers in North Carolina, New York, Texas, and Kansas. They'll sell the VF 8 all-electric SUV initially, with plans for other models. VinFast offers a 10-year/125,000-mile vehicle warranty and a 10-year unlimited mileage battery warranty for non-commercial use. The company aims to expand its U.S. dealer network to 125 points of sale. Read more.

QuantumScape's solid-state batteries offer 500k km, no range loss (4 mins read)

Volkswagen's PowerCo lauds QuantumScape's solid-state cells, potentially enabling EVs to drive 500,000 km with minimal range loss. The 24-layer cells, exceeding performance targets, maintained over 95% original capacity during PowerCo's endurance test. PowerCo deems the solid-state cells capable of achieving ranges of 500-600 km (~311-373 mi) for approximately 500,000 km (~311,000 miles) without significant degradation. Read more.

What is the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate and what does it mean for you? (6 mins read)

This article unveils the UK's groundbreaking Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate starting January 2024. Enforcing rising annual targets, it compels car manufacturers to prioritize zero-emission vehicles, reaching 100% by 2035. Penalties for non-compliance are set, reflecting the government's ambitious net-zero strategy and commitment to a sustainable automotive future. Read more.